Investment Basics XLIV: Review of African stock markets

Mlambo, Chipo and Biekpe, Nicholas (2001): Investment Basics XLIV: Review of African stock markets. Published in: Investment Analysts Journal , Vol. 54, No. 5 (December 2001): pp. 61-65.

Abstract

African stock markets have rapidly increased in number since 1989. This rapid increase came with the efforts to privatise state-owned enterprises. African markets are still young and segmented and lack contagion with global emerging markets. Expected returns are quite high on African stock markets making them attractive to international investors. However, African markets are also characterised by poor liquidity and market inefficiency. This, coupled with unfavourable laws and regulations, political instability, foreign exchange and convertibility risk, taxation, limited share acquisitions and restrictions on foreign portfolio investment have constrained the growth of these markets. Relaxing or eliminating investment restrictions will promote foreign portfolio investments resulting in improved liquidity and efficiency. This will give African stock markets increased growth potential and enhance their role in economic growth.

• Item Type: MPRA Paper
• Language: English
• Keywords: market efficiency; African stock markets; liquidity
• Subjects: G - Financial Economics > G1 - General Financial Markets; G - Financial Economics > G1 - General Financial Markets > G11 - Portfolio Choice ; Investment Decisions

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